Welcome to the vibrant world of Mexican cuisine in Charleston! From sizzling fajitas to zesty tacos, the Mexican restaurants here are renowned for their delectable dishes and warm hospitality. Whether you are a die-hard foodie or simply looking to explore the culinary delights of the Holy City, these Mexican restaurants are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Here are Charleston Guru’s picks for the top Mexican restaurants in Charleston.
The Best Mexican restaurants in Charleston
Rancho Lewis
Neighborhood: Downtown | NoMo
The owners of Charlestons’ beloved Lewis Barbecue are the creators behind Rancho Lewis—one of Charlestons’ top Mexican restaurants. Rancho Lewis is a Tex-Mex-inspired restaurant in the North Morrison area of Downtown Charleston right near Edmund’s Oast Brewing Co. and Sushi Wa. Rancho Lewis sources high-quality ingredients to make their popular dishes like Rancho Fajitas, House Made Tortillas, Seasoned Tortilla Chips, and House Margaritas.
Santi’s
Neighborhoods: Downtown | Mount Pleasant
Santi’s has been a Charleston staple for over 20 years. Santi’s serves traditional Mexican dishes and has been awarded best tacos, best Mexican restaurant, best cheap eats, and best margarita from the Charleston City Paper. We recommend trying the Mexican and American Tacos.
El Pincho Taco
Neighborhood: Downtown | East Central
If you are looking for a fast-casual and authentic Mexican restaurant, look no further than El Pincho Taco. Menu highlights include Birria Tacos, Margarita Flights, and the Pincho Burrito. El Pincho offers patio, bar, and indoor seating.
Mex 1 Coastal Cantina
Neighborhoods: Sullivan’s Island | Park West | West Ashley
Mex 1 has a few locations around town, and they are all great spots for conversation, margaritas, and chips and guac. For food options, we recommend trying a Baja Bowl made with brown rice, black beans, fresh pico de gallo, guacamole, tortilla strips, and your protein of choice. Pair this with the Pineapple Coco Margarita made with pineapple infused tequila.
Maya
Neighborhoods: Downtown | Upper King
Maya is a great nightlife spot located on Upper King Street. Maya serves elevated Mexican dishes with a coastal inspiration. The menu includes Chicken Mole, Short Rib Mole Rojo, Calabaza Enchiladas (a Guru favorite), and Agave Flights. Be sure to take a look at their mezcal menu.
Matador
Neighborhoods: Downtown | French Quarter
The Matador not only has amazing Mexican dishes, but they have a wide selection of top-shelf tequila and a twice-a-day happy hour. Happy hour is rom 4:00pm to 6:00pm and from 10:00pm to close. Happy Hour includes $6 salads, quesadillas, Brussels sprouts, bean dip, and $7 nachos, tacos, and guacamole. We highly recommend checking out this new Charleston restaurant.
Juanita Greenbergs
Neighborhoods: Downtown | Mount Pleasant
Juanita Greenberg’s is a lively Mexican restaurant that has been in Downtown Charleston for the past 20+ years and in Mount Pleasant since 2011. This popular spot is known for their award-winning margaritas, burritos, and the Nacho Royale.
Azul Mexicano
Neighborhoods: Park Circle | James Island
Azul has locations in Park Circle, Downtown Charleston, and James Island. This casual Mexican restaurant offers all of the classic menu items like tacos, sopes, fajitas, burritos, soups, and enchiladas. The dessert menu includes flan, churros, and sopapilla made with fried flour tortillas with sugar cinnamon, whipped cream, and honey. Stop by during daily happy hour for discounted margaritas, draft beer, wine, and tequila.
Jalisco Taqueria & Tequila
Neighborhood: James Island
Jalisco on James Island serves vibrant menu items like tamales, ceviche, and popular menu items like the Carne Asada Salad. To satiate your sweet tooth, they also serve churros and ice cream sandwiches. Jalisco regularly offers daily specials and family friendly events.
Did we leave off your favorite Mexican restaurant in Charleston? Let us know in the comments below!
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